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Home , Calling of Matthew, Census of Quirinius, Cursing the fig tree, Jesus predicts his death, Kiss of Judas, Laity

SUNDAY 2015 Christian (Disciples of )

“This, then, is how you should pray: “„Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. “GiveGive usus thisthis dayday ourour dailydaily Bread…”Bread…” SolidSolid FoodFood

For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” “Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.” Then Jesus declared, “ the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever in me will never be thirsty. BitesBites fromfrom thethe BibleBible

When it comes to the , there is so much to marvel and to learn. There are of many kinds that are per- said, (and he then goes on to quote the prophecy written by formed by Jesus and some by the apostles (when they be- Isaiah hundreds of years before) “These people will listen and lieved). We have heard stories; some we know well and listen, but never understand. They will look and look, but nev- others we only remember them as we were told as children. er see. All of them have stubborn minds! Their ears are So what does it all mean? Jesus knew, even then, that some stopped up, and their eyes are covered. They cannot see or would immediately understand the critical need to know hear or understand. If they could, they would turn to me, and I and others would ponder over . He expresses this would heal them.” The 2015 Laity is designed with the hopes in Matthew 13:13-15 (CEV) when He says: “I use stories of making each of us hungry for greater understanding. The when I speak to them because when they look, they cannot hope is that we, as followers of Jesus Christ, grow in our per- see, and when they listen, they cannot hear or understand. sonal understanding of the message of the Bible so that when So God’s promise came true, just as the prophet Isaiah had we look we can see and when we listen we understand.

Overview

Remembering the first people of the .” Then the followers first century church, after the resurrec- understood that Jesus was not tion, leaving his followers still with telling them to beware of the yeast many questions and waiting, though he used in bread but to beware of the left them with instructions. teaching of the and the Sadducees.

At that time and still today, we some- The suggestion to the apostles was that times forget that the intention is for us their misunderstanding was because to follow the instructions of Christ. they had not taken time to search, to Even the apostles were given instruc- tions to dig for the true meaning in everything… even in a reference to bread, as you will see in this passage at :5-12 that has a sub-topic “I was not in the NCV—Guard Against Wrong talking to Teachings:

you about Jesus’ followers went across the lake, but they had forgotten to bread. Why bring bread. Jesus said to them, “Be careful! Beware of the yeast of understand the true meaning of the ’t you the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” message. His followers discussed the mean- We are still called to be good stewards understand ing of this, saying, “He said this of the information and instructions giv- because we forgot to bring bread.” en to us by Jesus Christ. As Disciples of that?” Knowing what they were talking Christ, we are to be obedient followers about, Jesus asked them, “Why are as we read and search the scriptures for you talking about not having the truth and direction that is written in bread? Your faith is small. Do “The Word” — The Bible you still not understand? Re-

member the five loaves of bread that fed the five thousand? And The objective and goal of the 2015 Laity remember that you filled many Sunday curriculum is to give you bits baskets with the leftovers? Or the and bites of the truth we find in the seven loaves of bread that fed the scriptures. The hopeful intent is to four thousand and the many bas- make you “hungry” for more. That kets you filled then also? I was would be; more information, greater not talking to you about bread. understanding and more insight on ways Why don’t you understand that? to incorporate and design our lives to be I am telling you to beware of the true examples of the one we follow: yeast of the Pharisees and the Jesus Christ. 2

Laity Sunday Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Pa ge 3

Instructions: BitesBites fromfrom thethe BibleBible

The laity of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) are always in- But you are a chosen peo- volved in the functions of the church. ple, royal , a holy From teaching to pre- nation, a people for God's paring a fellowship gathering, the lai- own possession. You were ty is generally involved. Laity Sunday, chosen to tell about the however, is a time when the lay peo- wonderful acts of God, ple of the church pause to consider who called you out of darkness into his wonder- their gifts and are intentional in offer- ful light.10 At one time you ing these gifts in worship and in other were not a people, but ways on this designated Sunday. As now you are God's people. Disciples of Christ, we proclaim that In the past you had never we are followers and strive to use the received mercy, but now examples and instructions that Christ you have received God's has provided for us. We can each, mercy. regardless of age, make our own 1 Peter 2:9-10 unique contributions to proclaim our So, how can The Priesthood of All positions as Christ’s followers on laity Believers be defined simply? Effec-

Sunday and every day. Though we tively, each person, young and old, often lean on our Pastor (Shepherd) who understands that God is the You were chosen to be our spiritual leader, as the source of all things and that through to tell about the of all believers (1 Peter Christ we have a direct connection to wonderful acts of 2:9-10), we too can take time to pre- God. It is then, each person’s individ- God, who called pare and participate in the worship of ual responsibility to read and study you out of God. the Bible asking for God’s wisdom in darkness into his understanding as the stories, instruc- On occasion you may hear the Chris- wonderful light. tion, and examples unfold. It is each tian Church (Disciples of Christ) re- 1 Peter 2:9 person’s responsibility to identify the ferred to as “The Priesthood of all gifts given to them by God as they Believers.” This is a phrase that is work to glorify God in all they do. not likely to be found in the standard Support in each person’s study and dictionary, but it is important to un- personal spiritual growth can be en- derstand how it relates to being Disci- hanced through group study, commu- ple and a lay person. Consider this nity worship and praise, and other passage from 1 Peter 2:9-10: ways of service as Christ demonstrat- ed in His love of all people. It is im- portant to understand that each per- son has been given gifts that are to be used in one’s efforts to glorify God in all things. Hebrews 7:24-25 3

Options: AA VersionVersion RightRight forfor YouYou

As you grow in your understanding of the Bible, it is good to look at different versions to find one or more that will help you understand the message. Some are translated based on the meaning of each word and others are more of a paraphrase where the general concept of the passage is translated. It is important to know the difference, or to compare for understanding

James 1 New Century Version (NCV) James 1 New Living Translation (NLT) 1 From James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Greetings from James Christ. 1 This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord To all of God’s people who are scattered everywhere in Jesus Christ. the world: I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers Greetings. scattered abroad. Faith and Wisdom Greetings! 2 My brothers and sisters, when you have many kinds of Faith and Endurance troubles, you should be full of joy, 3 because you know 2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. patience. 4 Let your patience show itself perfectly in what 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endur- you do. Then you will be perfect and complete and will ance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your have everything you need. 5 But if any of you needs wis- endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and dom, you should ask God for it. He is generous to every- complete, needing nothing. one and will give you wisdom without criticizing you. 5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will 6 But when you ask God, you must believe and not doubt. give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But Anyone who doubts is like a wave in the sea, blown up when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. and down by the wind. 7-8 Such doubters are thinking two Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as un- different things at the same time, and they cannot decide settled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by about anything they do. They should not think they will the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive any- receive anything from the Lord. thing from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between True Riches God and the world, and they are unstable in everything 9 Believers who are poor should take pride that God has they do. made them spiritually rich. 10 Those who are rich should 9 Believers who are poor have something to boast about, take pride that God has shown them that they are spiritu- for God has honored them. 10 And those who are rich ally poor. The rich will die like a wild flower in the grass. should boast that God has humbled them. They will fade 11 The sun rises with burning heat and dries up the plants. away like a little flower in the field. 11 The hot sun rises The flower falls off, and its beauty is gone. In the same and the grass withers; the little flower droops and falls, way the rich will die while they are still taking care of and its beauty fades away. In the same way, the rich will business. fade away with all of their achievements. Temptation Is Not from God 12 God blesses those who patiently endure testing and 12 When people are tempted and still continue strong, temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life they should be happy. After they have proved their faith, that God has promised to those who love him. 13 And re- God will reward them with life forever. God promised this member, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God to all those who love him. 13 When people are tempted, is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and they should not say, “God is tempting me.” Evil cannot he never tempts anyone else. 14 Temptation comes from tempt God, and God himself does not tempt anyone. our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. 14 But people are tempted when their own evil desire 15 These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin leads them away and traps them. 15 This desire leads to is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. sin, and then the sin grows and brings death. 16 So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 16 My dear brothers and sisters, do not be fooled about 17 Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to this. 17 Every good action and every perfect gift is from us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. 4

sun, moon, and stars, who does not change like their 18 He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. shifting shadows. 18 God decided to give us life through And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession. the word of truth so we might be the most important of all the things he made. Listening and Doing 19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You Listening and Obeying must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get 19 My dear brothers and sisters, always be willing to listen angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteous- and slow to speak. Do not become angry easily, ness God desires. 21 So get rid of all the filth and evil in 20 because anger will not help you live the right kind of your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted 21 life God wants. So put out of your life every evil thing in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. and every kind of wrong. Then in gentleness accept God’s teaching that is planted in your hearts, which can save 22 But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it you. says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. 23 For if 22 Do what God’s teaching says; when you only listen and 23 you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at do nothing, you are fooling yourselves. Those who hear your face in a mirror. 24 You see yourself, walk away, and God’s teaching and do nothing are like people who look forget what you look like. 25 But if you look carefully into at themselves in a mirror. 24 They see their faces and then 25 the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it go away and quickly forget what they looked like. But says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless the truly happy people are those who carefully study you for doing it. God’s perfect law that makes people free, and they con- 26 If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tinue to study it. They do not forget what they heard, but tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is they obey what God’s teaching says. Those who do this worthless. 27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God will be made happy. the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their The True Way to Worship God 26 distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. People who think they are religious but say things they should not say are just fooling themselves. Their “religion” is worth nothing. 27 Religion that God accepts as pure and without fault is this: caring for orphans or widows who need help, and keeping yourself free from the world’s evil influence.

The following questions are designed for personal or group study. This passage and the questions can also be se- lected as Sunday School or Youth Group study curriculum or with Bible study groups. Remember, after you study and have conversation around the selected passage, consider how it might impact our lives today.

Other Resource Options: Hymn: “Trust and Obey” Tune: https://www.hymnal.net/en/hymn/h/582 Video URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmGb3zRv6xE

Reflection Questions—Read the parallel passage on pages 4 and 5 and answer the following questions:

1. When you have many kinds of trouble you should ______.

2. If you need wisdom, what should you do?

3. When you ask God for something, what should you do?

4. When a person is tempted and still remains strong, why should they be happy?

5. In verse 19 it tells you to always be willing to listen. Name at least three other instructions given in the verses that follow.

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Perspective: TakeTake TimeTime toto ThinkThink Even through the cartoons of life, there can be an important message...

Sometimes we read the wrong book and get the wrong advice.

Jonah 1 New Century Version (NCV)

God Calls and Jonah Runs The LORD spoke his word to Jonah son of Amittai: “Get up, go to the great city of Nineveh, and preach against it, be- cause I see the evil things they do.” But Jonah got up to run away from the LORD by going to Tarshish. He went to the city of Joppa, where he found a ship that was going to the city of Tarshish. Jonah paid for the trip and went aboard, planning to go to Tarshish to run away from the LORD.

Sometimes we have more understanding of the instructions of the secular world and less of the biblical instructions.

Matthew 22:29 New Century Version (NCV)

Jesus answered, “You don‟t understand, because you don‟t know what the Scriptures say, and you don‟t know about the power of God.”

Sometimes we just get the story wrong…

Noah and the Ark… Genesis Genesis 8:5-7 New International Version (NIV) 5 The waters continued to recede until the tenth month, and on the first day of the tenth month the tops of the mountains became visible. 6 After forty days Noah opened a window he had made in the ark 7 and sent out a raven, and it kept flying back and forth until the water had dried up from the earth.

Moses parted the Waters … Exodus Exodus 14:21 New International Version (NIV) Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, …

Copyright © 2011 The Zondervan Corporation. 6

Sometimes we think the praise is for us.

Matthew 6:3-4 New International Version (NIV) But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in se- cret, will reward you.

We are to love one another, but we are also cautioned to be aware.

Matthew 16:5-12 New Century Version (NCV) “… I was not talking to you about bread. Why don‟t you understand that? I am telling you to beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” Then the followers un- derstood that Jesus was not telling them to beware of the yeast used in bread but to beware of the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.

Are you a taker or giver; to the glory of God or to your own glory? Remember, God is not Santa Clause.

1 Peter 2:11-12 New Century Version (NCV) Live for God Dear friends, you are like foreigners and strangers in this world. I beg you to avoid the evil things your bodies want to do that fight against your soul. People who do not believe are living all around you and might say that you are doing wrong. Live such good lives that they will see the good things you do and will give glory to God on the day when Christ comes again.

Copyright © 2011 The Zondervan Corporation. 7

Are you an “encourager” or are you a “judge”?

Matthew 7:3-5 New Century Version (NCV) “Why do you notice the little piece of dust in your friend‟s eye, but you don‟t notice the big piece of wood in your own eye? How can you say to your friend, „Let me take that little piece of dust out of your eye‟? Look at yourself! You still have that big piece of wood in your own eye. You hypocrite! First, take the wood out of your own eye. Then you will see clearly to take the dust out of your friend‟s eye.

“The Word” is greater than “The Show”

Matthew 23:1-7 New Century Version (NCV) Jesus Accuses Some Leaders Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his followers “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees have the authority to tell you what the law of Moses says. So you should obey and follow whatever they tell you, but their lives are not good examples for you to follow. They tell you to do things, but they themselves don‟t do them. They make strict rules and try to force people to obey them, but they are unwilling to help those who struggle under the weight of their rules. “They do good things so that other people will see them. They enlarge the little boxes holding Scriptures that they wear, and they make their special prayer clothes very long. Those Pharisees and teachers of the law love to have the most important seats at feasts and in the synagogues.

They love people to greet them with respect in the market- places, and they love to have people call them „Teacher.‟

Copyright © 2011 The Zondervan Corporation.

Reflection Questions—Consider the comics on pages 6 and 7 and answer the following questions:

1. Select a cartoon on page 6 that speaks to you. Tell why you selected this one.

2. Is it easier to understand what is familiar in the world than what is familiar in “The Word”? Why?

3. Look at the Noah’s Ark cartoon on page 6. Research both stories for new details you may not have known before to add more “solid food” to your understanding of these Bible stories you may have learned as a child.

4. Consider the cartoons on page 7. In your words explain the difference between the dust and the wood.

5. Consider the difference between going to church to be entertained (or having to entertain to get people to come) and worship. Take a moment to capture and write your thoughts and reflections.

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Following: GettingGetting toto knowknow GodGod “Better”“Better”

As followers of Jesus Christ (Disciples of Christ), we need a guide to the promised destination. Sometimes we do get turned-around, and then we must re-calculate.

 Search for bible passages that might indicate ways that Jesus could be your GPS.

The goal of our lives is to build our relationship with God.

 Make a list of ways to build your personal relationship with God.

Copyright © 2011 The Zondervan Corporation.

Using Reverend Fun (Comics) Interested in re-using Reverend Fun cartoons in a church bulletin, website, or other project? You are welcome to use Reverend Fun cartoons in your project within the fol- lowing guidelines. Written permission is necessary if you are writing a book or developing merchandise or creating presentations that uses material or cartoons from Rever- end Fun. Contact Zondervan Permissions at the following address: Zondervan Permissions, 5300 Patterson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49530, zPermis- [email protected] Churches/Sunday Schools using less than 50 items, not for resale and for church use only, do not need formal permission. All other circumstances or projects require contacting Zondervan Permissions at the address above for permission. More information about re-using Reverend Fun and other Zondervan material can be found at the Zondervan Permissions page. Note that whenever re-using Reverend Fun cartoons, you must include the following credit line near the cartoons: Copyright © 2011 The Zondervan Corporation.

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Truth: MoreMore ThanThan JustJust HistoryHistory Before there was the Bible, as we know it today, the books and passages were written over hundreds… thousands of years as many prophets predicted things that were to come. When the documents were found and compiled, the Bible was created which revealed the many prophesies, including the coming of Jesus Christ.

Folio from Papyrus 46, containing 2 Corinthians 11:33-12:9 is one of the oldest original surviving manuscripts in Greek written on papyrus (paper-like material made from the papyrus plant with its 'most probable date' between 175-225 AD.

Reflection / Questions:

1. Today research is so much faster since information has been catalogued and made accessible to anyone through internet research. “Google” Papyrus 46 (or use another search engine of your choice). What information was available?

2. Check at least three web locations to look for new and exciting information that you did not know. Make a list of those items that most impressed you.

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Old Testament New Testament (39 books) (27 books)

Pentateuch or Christian scholars usually refer to Canonical A biblical , or canon of The Five Books of Moses the first five books of the Hebrew scripture, is a list of books Genesis Bible as the Pentateuch meaning Matthew considered to be authoritative scripture by a particular religious Exodus five books, or as the Law, or Law Mark community. Leviticus of Moses. Luke Numbers John Deuteronomy Apostolic History The Apostolic Age of the history of Historical Books The historical narratives that Acts is traditionally the begin immediately after the period of the Twelve Apostles, dating from the death of Moses with the divine of the Apostles by the resurrected appointment of Joshua. Jesus in c. 33 until the death of the last Apostle, believed to be in Anatolia c. 100. Joshua Pauline epistles The Pauline epistles, Epistles of Judges Romans Paul, or Letters of Paul, are the Ruth 1 Corinthians thirteen New Testament books which have the name Paul as the 1 Samuel 2 Corinthians first word, hence claiming 2 Samuel Galatians authorship by . 1 Kings Ephesians 2 Kings Philippians 1 Chronicles Colossians 2 Chronicles 1 Thessalonians Ezra 2 Thessalonians Nehemiah 1 Timothy Esther 2 Timothy Wisdom Books Wisdom books are intended to Titus Job teach about divinity and virtue Philemon Psalms generally using traditional story- General epistles General epistles are books in the Proverbs telling methods. It is also Hebrews New Testament in the form of Ecclesiastes presumed to offer insight and James letters. They are termed "general" because for the most part their Song of Solomon wisdom about nature and reality. 1 Peter intended audience seems to be Christians in general rather than A major prophet is a book that Major Prophets 2 Peter individual persons or congregations Isaiah refers to their length of the text 1 John as is the case with the Pauline Jeremiah and not the importance of the 2 John epistles. Lamentations prophet. 3 John Ezekiel Jude Daniel Apocalypse The last book of the New Twelve Minor Prophets The minor prophets are books Revelation Testament, the revelation which Hosea that refer to their shorter length John receives is that of the ultimate victory of good over evil and the Joel of text (compared to the major end of the present age, and that is Amos prophets) and not the importance the primary meaning of the term Obadiah of the prophet. Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

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ynoptic Gospels

S The word “synoptic” could be described as a summary of common stories and ideas. The gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are referred to as the because they include many of the same stories, often in a similar sequence and in similar wording. The book of John has some shared components, but is most different is and content. You will find in this curriculum, only a brief look at each of the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John found in the New Testament. Because there are so many amazing things to learn in each which will encourage each one’s spiritual growth; and because this study will not be able to capture all that is offered, each book -brief will be followed with a summary of the contents found in each gospel.

Reflection Questions for the Synoptic Gospels

1. Glance through the summaries of each of the four gospels and find at least two reflections that are in all four. List, in a group by each event, the book, and verses. Read the verses to find the similarities in each. 2. The pictures of each apostle is included only as a reminder that, as we are human with regular lives, so were they. Each image is the artist’s idea of how each one may have looked. Search the four gospels to see if you can find any indications of the personal characteristics of these four apostles. 3. After reviewing each book’s summary, which of the four Synoptic Gospels do you find most interesting?

identify Matthew as the author of bering those found in the other Gos- atthew this book in their statement: “The pels. author of this book was beyond a The Christian community to which

M doubt the Matthew, an apostle of Matthew belonged, like many 1st our Lord, whose name it bears. He century Christians, were still part of wrote of Christ according the larger Jewish community: hence to his own plans and aims, and from the designation Jewish-Christian to his own point of view, as did also the describe them. The writing was pri- other "evangelists." Many sources marily targeting a community of agree that it is probably written be- Greek-speaking Jewish Christians tween the years A.D. 60 and 65. located probably in Syria (Antioch, Easton Dictionary points out that this the largest city in and Gospel contains no fewer than sixty- the third-largest in the empire, is five references to the , often mentioned). Unlike Mark, he From Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary forty-three of these being direct ver- never bothers to explain Jewish cus- As expressed in Easton’s Bible Dic- bal citations, thus greatly outnum- toms; unlike Luke, who traces Jesus' tionary (1897), they are firm as they

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ancestry back to Adam, father of the Strong man (12:29) 10. Jerusalem, cleansing of the tem- human race, he traces it only to Those not with me are against me ple, debates Abraham, father of the Jews. (12:30) Triumphal entry into Jerusalem (21:1 Unforgivable sin (12:31–32) –11) Detailed content of (12:33–37) Temple incident (21:12–17) Matthew Request for a sign (12:38–42) (21:18–22) Return of the unclean spirit (12:43– Authority questioned (21:23-27) 1. Birth Stories 45) The Two Sons, The Wicked Husband- Genealogy (1:1–17) Jesus' true relatives (12:46-50) man, of the Wedding Feast Nativity (1:18–25) Parabolic Discourse (13:1–52) (21:28–22:14) (2:1–12) 7. Conflicts, rejections, and confer- ... (22:15–22) (2:13–20) ences with disciples Resurrection of the Dead (22:23–33) Return to Nazareth (2:21-23) Hometown rejection (13:53–58) (22:34–40) 2. and early ministry Death of (14:1-12) Is the the son of ? John the Baptist (3:1–12) Feeding the 5000 (14:13–21) (22:41–46) (3:13–17) Walking on water (14:22–33) 11. Woes of the Pharisees (23:1–39) Temptation of Jesus (4:1–11) Fringe of his cloak heals (14:34–36) 12. Judgment day (4:12–17) Discourse on Defilement (15:1–20) Little Apocalypse (24) First disciples of Jesus (4:18–22) Canaanite woman's daughter (15:21 Parables of the Ten Virgins, Talents preaching tour (4:23–25) –28) (25:1–30) 3. on the Mount (5–7) Healing on a mountain (15:29-31) Judgment of the Nations (25:31–46) 4. Healing and miracles Feeding the 4000 (15:32–39) 13. Trial, crucifixion, resurrection Healing many (8:1–17) Sign of Jonah (16:1-4) Plot to kill Jesus (26:1–5) Foxes have holes (8:18–20) Beware of yeast (16:5–12) (26:6–13) Let the dead bury the dead (8:21–22) Peter's confession (16:13–20) Bargain of Judas (26:14-16) (8:23–27) (16:21- (26:17–30) Gadarene demoniacs (8:28–34) 28,17:22-23,20:17-19) (26:31–35,69–75) Healing a paralytic (9:1–8) Transfiguration (17:1–13) (26:36-46) (9:9–13) Possessed boy (17:14–21) of Judas (26:47-49) On fasting (9:14–15) Coin in the fish's mouth (17:24-27) Arrest (26:50–56) New Wine/ Old Wineskins (9:16-17) 8. Life in the Christian community Before the High (26:57–68) Daughter of Jairus (9:18–26) The Little Children (18:1–7) Pilate's court (27:1–2,11–26) Two blind men (9:27–31) If thy hand offend thee (18:8–9) Death of Judas (27:3-10) Exorcising a mute (9:32-34) The Lost Sheep (18:10–14) Soldiers mock Jesus (27:27-31) Good crop / few harvesters (9:35– Binding and loosing (18:15–22) (27:32) 38) Unmerciful Servant (18:23–35) Crucifixion (27:33–56) 5. Little Commission (10:1–11:1) 9. Journey to Jerusalem Entombment (27:57–61) 6. Responses to Jesus Entering (19:1–2) Guarding the tomb (27:62–66,28:11- Messengers from John the Baptist Divorce (19:3–9) 15) (11:2-19) (19:10-12) (28:1–6) Cursing Chorazin, , and Ca- Little Children Blessed (19:13-15) Appearance to the women (28:7-10) pernaum (11:20–24) Jesus and the rich young man (19:16 Great Commission (28:16–20) Praising the Father (11:25–30) –30) (12:1-8) Parable of the Workers in the Vine- Man with withered hand (12:9-14) yard (20:1–16) Chosen servant (12:15–21) (20:20–28) Blind-mute man (12:22–28) Blind near Jericho (20:29-34) 13

Peter's mother-in-law (1:29–31) Instructions for followers (8:34–9:1) ark Exorcising at sunset (1:32–34) Transfiguration (9:2–13) A leper (1:35–45) Possessed boy (9:14–29) M Easton Dictionary also A paralytic (2:1–2:12) Teaching in Capernaum (9:33–50) suggests that Mark derived his infor- Calling of Matthew (2:13–17) 2. Journey to Jerusalem mation mainly from the discourses of Fasting and wineskins (2:18–22) Entering Judea and Transjordan Peter and he is often known as "the Lord of the Sabbath (2:23–28) (10:1) and interpreter of Peter.” As Man with withered hand (3:1–6) On divorce (10:2–12) to the time when it was written, the Withdrawing to the sea (3:7–3:12) Little children (10:13–16) Gospel furnishes us with no definite Commissioning the Twelve (3:13–19) Rich young man (10:17–31) information. Mark makes no men- Blind mute (3:20–26) Son of man came to serve (10:35–45) tion of the destruction of Jerusalem, Strong man (3:27) Blind Bartimaeus (10:46–52) hence it must have been written be- Eternal sin (3:28–30) 3. Events in Jerusalem fore that event, and probably about Jesus' true relatives (3:31–35) Entering Jerusalem (11:1–11) A.D. 63. Cursing the fig tree (11:12–14,20-24) Temple incident (11:15–19) The Gospel according to Mark is the Prayer for forgiveness (11:25–26) second book of the New Testament Authority questioned (11:27–33) and the second of the four gospels. Wicked husbandman (12:1–12) Many scholars today now regard it as Render unto Caesar... (12:13–17) the earliest of the gospels. Mark Resurrection of the Dead (12:18–27) tells of the from his Great Commandment (12:28–34) baptism by John the Baptist to his Is the Messiah the son of David? death and burial and the discovery of (12:35–40) the empty tomb – there is no geneal- Widow's mite (12:41–44) ogy or birth narrative, nor post- (13) resurrection appearances. It portrays (4:1–9,13-20) Plot to kill Jesus (14:1–2) Jesus as a heroic man of action, an Purpose of parables (4:10–12,33-34) Anointing (14:3–9) exorcist, healer and worker. (4:21–23) Bargain of Judas (14:10–11) Jesus is also the son of God, but he Mote and Beam (4:24–25) Last Supper (14:12–26) keeps his identity secret, concealing Growing seed and Mustard seed Denial of Peter (14:27–31,66-72) it in parables so that even the disci- (4:26–32) Agony in the Garden (14:32–42) ples fail to understand. All this is in Calming the storm (4:35–41) (14:43–45) keeping with prophecy, which fore- Demon named Legion (5:1–20) Arrest (14:46–52) told the fate of the messiah as Daughter of Jairus (5:21–43) Before the High Priest (14:53–65) Suffering Servant. The gospel ends, Hometown rejection (6:1–6) Pilate's court (15:1–15) in its original version, with the dis- Instructions for the Twelve (6:7–13) Soldiers mock Jesus (15:16–20) covery of the empty tomb, a promise Beheading of John (6:14–29) Simon of Cyrene (15:21) to meet again and instruction to Feeding the 5000 (6:30–44) Crucifixion (15:22–41) spread the good news of the resur- Walking on water (6:45–52) Entombment (15:42–47) rection. Fringe of his cloak heals (6:53–56) Empty tomb (16:1–8) Discourse on Defilement (7:1–23) The Longer Ending (16:9–20) Detailed Content of Mark Canaanite woman's daughter (7:24– Resurrection appearances (16:9–13) 30) Great Commission (16:14–18) 1. Galilean ministry Deaf mute (7:31–37) Ascension (16:19) John the Baptist (1:1–8) Feeding the 4000 (8:1–9) Dispersion of the Apostles (16:20 Baptism of Jesus (1:9–11) No sign will be given (8:10–21) Commission (28:16–20) Temptation of Jesus (1:12–13) Healing with spit (8:22–26) Good News (1:15) Peter's confession (8:27–30) First disciples (1:16–20) Jesus predicts his death (8:31–33, Capernaum's synagogue (1:21–28) 9:30–32, 10:32–34)

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to be read aloud to a group of Jesus- Messengers from John the Baptist uke followers gathered in a house to (7:18–35) share the Lord's Supper. The author Anointing (7:36–50) L The is identi- assumes an educated Greek- Women companions of Jesus (8:1–3) fied in Easton’s Bible Dictionary, not speaking audience, but directs his Parable of the Sower (8:4–8,11–15) only as one of the synoptic gospels, attention to specifically Christian Purpose of parables (8:9–10) concerns. It was written to encour- The Lamp under a Bushel (8:16–18; age faith. 11:33) Jesus' true relatives (8:19–21) Detailed Content of Luke Calming the storm (8:22–25) Demon named Legion (8:26–39) 1. Formal introduction Daughter of Jairus (8:40–56) To (1:1–4) Instructions for the Twelve (9:1–6) 2. Jesus' birth and boyhood Death of John the Baptist (9:7–9) Zacharias (1:5–25) Feeding of the 5000 (9:10–17) (1:26–45) Peter's confession (9:18–20) (1:46–56) Jesus predicts his death (9:21–27, 44 Nativity of St. John the Baptist (1:57– –45; 18:31–34) 80) Transfiguration (9:28–36) but also with names acquired over Benedictus (1:68–79) Possessed boy (9:37–43) centuries that express its content. of (2:1–5) The Little Children (9:46–48) “Each writer has some things, both in (2:6–7) Those not against are for (9:49–50) matter and style, peculiar to himself, Annunciation to the shepherds (2:8– 5. Jesus' teaching on the journey to yet all three have much in common. 15) Jerusalem Luke's Gospel has been called "the Adoration of the Shepherds (2:16– On the road to Jerusalem (9:51) Gospel of the nations, full of mercy 20) Samaritan rejection (9:52–56) and hope, assured to the world by (2:21–40) Foxes have holes (9:57–58) the love of a suffering Savior;" "the (2:29–32) Let the dead bury the dead (9:59–60) Gospel of the saintly life;" "the Gos- (2:41–52) Don't look back (9:61–62) pel for the Greeks; the Gospel of the 3. Jesus' baptism and temptation Commission of the Seventy (10:1– future; the Gospel of progressive Ministry of John the Baptist (3:1–20) 12,10:16–20) Christianity, of the universality and Baptism (3:21–22) Cursing Chorazin, Bethsaida, Caper- gratuitousness of the gospel; the Genealogy (3:23–38) naum (10:13–15) historic Gospel; the Gospel of Jesus Temptation (4:1–13) Praising the Father (10:21–24) as the good Physician and the Savior 4. Jesus’ ministry in Galilee Great Commandment (10:25–28) of mankind;" the "Gospel of the Fa- Good News (4:14–15) Parable of the Good Samaritan therhood of God and the - Rejection in Nazareth (4:16–30) (10:29–37) hood of man;" "the Gospel of wom- Capernaum (4:31–44) Visiting and Mary (10:38–42) anhood;" "the Gospel of the outcast, (5:1–11) Lord's Prayer (11:1–4) of the Samaritan, the publican, the Leper and Paralytic (5:12–26) The Friend at Night (11:5–13) harlot, and the prodigal;" "the Gos- Calling of Matthew (5:27–32) Blind-mute man (11:14–19) pel of tolerance.” On fasting (5:33–35) Exorcising by the Finger of God

New Wine into Old Wineskins (5:36– (11:20) Luke was educated, a man of means, 39) Strong man (11:21–22) probably urban, and was often re- Lord of the Sabbath (6:1–5) Those not with me are against me ferred to as “Dr. Luke” or “The Physi- Man with withered hand (6:6–11) (11:23) cian.” Most experts date the book of Commissioning the Twelve Apostles Return of the unclean spirit (11:24– Luke around 80-90 AD. Sharing the (6:12–16) 26) story of both the birth of John the (6:17–49) Those who hear the word and keep it Baptist and Jesus, the stories move Centurion's servant (7:1–10) (11:27–28) from Galilee to Jerusalem by the Young man from Nain (7:11–17) Request for a sign (11:29–32) close of the book. Luke was written 15

Eye and Light (11:34–36) (20:41–44) was probably written at Ephesus, Woes of the Pharisees (11:37–54) Denouncing scribes (20:45–47) which, after the destruction of Jeru- Veiled and Unveiled (12:1–3) Lesson of the widow's mite (21:1–4) salem (A.D. 70), became the center Whom to fear (12:4–7) Olivet discourse (21:5–38) of Christian life and activity in the Unforgivable sin (12:8–12) Plot to kill Jesus (22:1–2) East, about A.D. 90.” Disputed inheritance (12:13–15) Bargain of Judas (22:3–6) The Rich Fool and Birds (12:16–32) Last Supper (22:7–23) The gospel identifies its author as Sell your possessions (12:33–34) Dispute about Greatness (22:24–30) "the disciple whom Jesus loved." Alt- Parable of the Faithful Servant (12:35 Denial of Peter (22:31–34, 55–62) hough the text does not name this –48) Sell your cloak and buy a sword disciple, by the beginning of the 2nd Not Peace, but a Sword (12:49–53; (22:35–38) century, a tradition had begun to 14:25–27) Agony in the Garden (22:39–46) form which identified him with John Knowing the times (12:54–56) Kiss of Judas (22:47–53) the Apostle, one of the Twelve Settle with your accuser (12:57–59) Arrest (22:54) (Jesus' innermost circle). Tower of Siloam (13:1–5) Guards mock Jesus (22:63–65) The Barren Fig Tree (13:6–9) Before the High Priest (22:66–71) Detailed Content of John Infirm woman (13:10–17) Pilate's court (23:1–7, 13–25) Parables of Mustard seed and Leav- Jesus at Herod's court (23:8–12) 1. Hymn to the Word en (13:18–21) Simon of Cyrene (23:26) Jesus is the word become flesh *Jn The Narrow Gate (13:22–30) Crucifixion (23:27–49) 1:1–18+ Lament over Jerusalem (13:31–35) Entombment (23:50–56) 2. , Seven Signs Man with dropsy (14:1–6) Empty tomb (24:1–12) John the Baptist *1:19–28+ Parable of the Wedding Feast, Great Resurrection appearances (24:13– Jesus is the Lamb of God *1:29–34+ banquet, , 43) First disciples of Jesus *1:35–51+ Lost sheep, Lost coin, Lost son, Un- Great Commission (24:44–49) Marriage at : the first sign *2:1– just steward (14:7–16:13) (24:50–53) 12+ Not one stroke of a letter (16:14–17) Jesus and the Money Changers *2:13 On divorce (16:18) ohn –25+ Lazarus and Dives (16:19–31) the Pharisee *3:1–21+ Curse those who set traps (17:1–6) J The need to be *3:16+ From Easton’s perspective, “The The Master and Servant (17:7–10) Jesus surpasses John *3:22–4:4+ peculiarities of this Gospel are the Cleansing ten lepers (17:11–19) Samaritan woman at the well: Jesus place it gives (1) to the mystical rela- The Coming Kingdom of God (17:20– as the Water of Life *4:5–42+ tion of the Son to the Father, and (2) 37) Healing the royal official's son: the of the Redeemer to believers; (3) the Parables of the Unjust judge, Phari- second sign *4:43–54+ announcement of the Holy Ghost as see and Publican (18:1–14) Healing the paralytic at Bethesda the Comforter; (4) the prominence The Little Children (18:15–17) *5:1–18+ Rich Young Man (18:18–30) Authority of the Son *5:19–23+ Blind near Jericho (18:35–43) Resurrection of the Dead *5:24–29+ Zacchaeus (19:1–9) Witnesses to Jesus *5:30–47+ Son of Man came to save (19:10) The feeding of the five thousand *6:1 Parable of the Talents (19:11–27) –15+ 6. Jesus' Jerusalem conflicts, cruci- Walking on water*6:16–21+ fixion, and resurrection *6:22–59+ Entry into Jerusalem (19:28–44) Last Day *6:39–40+*6:44+*6:54+ Temple incident (19:45–48) *11:24+*12:48+ Authority questioned (20:1–8) Jesus deserted by many disciples The Wicked Husbandman (20:9–19) *6:60–71+ Render unto Caesar... (20:20–26) Feast of Tabernacles *7:1–52+ given to love as an element in the Resurrection of the Dead (20:27–40) Jesus and the woman taken in adul- Christian character. It was obviously Is the Messiah the son of David? tery *7:53–8:11+ (not originally part addressed primarily to Christians. It 16

of John) Entombment *19:38–42+ Jesus is the *8:12– Empty tomb *20:1–10+ 20+ Mary don't hold on to me *20:11–18+ Where I'm going, you can't come Great Commission *20:19–23+ *8:21–30+ *20:24–29+ The truth will make you free *8:31– Appendix* 20:30–31+ 38+ Appendix to the Appendix *21+ Your father is the Devil *8:39–47+ Catch of 153 fish *21:1–14+ Jesus existed before Abraham *8:48– Prophecy of Peter's crucifixion *21:15 59+ –19+ Healing the blind at birth *9+ Disciple whom Jesus loved *21:20– *10:1–21+ 25+ Jesus rejected by the Jews *10:22– 42+ *12:37–43+ Note Space: Raising of Lazarus *11:1–44+ Use to record any passages from the gospel summaries that you Let's return to Judea *11:7+ would like to research later. *11:35+ Plot to kill Jesus *11:45–57+ Mary anoints Jesus *12:1–8+ Plot to kill Lazarus *12:9–11+ Triumphal entry into Jerusalem *12:12–19+ Son of Man *12:20–36+ Last Judgment *12:44–50+ 3. Book of Glory, Last Teachings and Death Foot Washing *13:1–20+ Betrayal of Jesus *13:21–30+ Love one another *13:31–35+ Peter's denial *13:36–38+*18:15–18+ *18:25–27+ Jesus is the only Way to the Father *14:1–14+ Promise of the *14:15–31+ *15:18–16:33+ Jesus is the *15:1–17+ The World's Hatred *15:18–16:4+ The Work of the Spirit *16:5–15+ Sorrow will turn into joy *16:16–24+ I Have Overcome the World *16:25– 33+ High Priestly Prayer *Jn 17+ That they all may be one *17:21+ Arrest*18:1–11+ Before the High Priests *18:12–14+ *18:19–24+ Pilate's court *18:28–19:16+ What is truth? *18:38+ *19:2–3+ *19:5+ Crucifixion *19:17–37+

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Worship Instructions

Though we can “enjoy” a sermon, skit or choir presentation, it is important to let The chair of this committee or planning volunteers know that worship is not just team or worship leader for this event a production for the “audience,” but has two important tasks, and they are worship is a time to express our adora- to: tion and commitment to God and to let God know our love. Worship is a time 1. Create a timeline that includes all to give glory and honor to God. It is a that it takes to plan the Laity worship time to acknowledge God in our lives. It service using this resource and adjust- is also a time to recognize the gifts and ing it to the needs and personality of God has given to us. Worship your congregation. is a time to acknowledge the presence of the and to understand the 2. Lead the worship service. incredible gift God gave us in our Savior, Jesus Christ. There are many places in Take time before all activities to begin the Bible that show expressions of wor- with prayer. If there is to be a leadership ship. team, invite everyone to stop for a brief time to come together and pray, asking After you have identified individuals that God directs the activities of the day. who are willing to participate in Laity All participants are worship coaches, Sunday activities, send to each person, who are commissioned to encourage the an email or postal mailed letter confir- congregation to praise and to honor mation of their commitment and the God. The purpose of worship is not to be date of the first planning meeting a few entertained, it is to please God. weeks prior to Laity Sunday. It can be simple and might begin this way: Give the planning team plenty of time to study the theme, scriptures and re- “Thank you so much for agreeing to par- sources. Name the participants, and pre- ticipate in this year’s Laity Sunday activi- pare for the event. Consider involving the ties. This congregation has long appreci- young, the youth and the older members ated the efforts of its participants and of your congregation. At the first worship leaders, bringing a variety of meeting of the Laity Sunday committee, gifts and styles to our times of worship. examine all of the material and select what May God bless you as you share your gifts with us, and to Glorify God! The first meeting of the planning team will be on____ at ____o'clock”.

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speaks to the hearts of the group members. You may also select to speak on multiple passages, addressing on how much is still yet to learn from the written word. Once you select the passage, you will be able to complete the mes- sage topic for your Laity Sunday service.

The theme of the 2015 curriculum reflects on “Bits and “Today’s service is a bit different from our usual ser- Bites from the Bible”. An effort was made to choose in- vices in that....” formation that is lesser-known; however, each resource includes important information or instruction to the fol- In an effort to separate the announcements from focused lowers of Jesus Christ. You will also find in this curricu- times of prayer and the sharing of the message, it is en- lum, a brief study of the Synoptic Gospels. This resource couraged that announcements are made at a pre- can also be used in Sunday school classes and with the determined time that is separate from prayerful moments. youth. This might be done very early in the service or just before prayers of the people. You will not find “announcements” You will find included a prepared service of worship for in the Order of Worship so each congregation can de- Laity Sunday. You may extract segments to include in a termine where their announcements will fit best, based worship service you have already prepared or use it in its on the needs and traditions of the church. You will want entirety, according to your needs. Remember, this is to keep the announcements short. worship, and it is your time to express your love to God. Note: On Laity Sunday the message can be delivered As the “Sermon/Message” is developed, give presenters in many ways. The message can be delivered by one person an opportunity to share their perspective, include personal or can be broken into segments where two or more can stories and prayerfully draw their own conclusions. Con- participate. sult with the pastor, elders or others “of good spirit” in the congregation if additional help is needed. Test your Always encourage time for prayer and discernment that conclusions against The Word, which is our denomina- God will direct the design and content of the message. tional design as Disciples of Christ. On Laity Sunday, if there are visitors and if the wor- ship service has unusual aspects that might confuse visitors, please be sensitive to the possibility of their misunderstanding and offer an explanation at the be- ginning of the service. You might say something simi- lar to this:

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Worship Service

Call to Worship

Today, we gather to praise, worship and glorify God! We acknowledge God’s presence as the Holy Spirit fills this place. We gather in this community, sharing the common thread of disciples, who are followers of Jesus Christ, Your gift to us and our Savior. Open our ears that we may receive the Word and Truth. Open our eyes that we may see you, in the eyes of those who love you; and open our mouths that we have no fear in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. We come today to worship, sing and hear “The Word.” Please, let us learn how to truly be Disciples of Christ. Most Gracious God, let us now worship You.

Hymn (find the Music Library at the end of this resource for additional selections, verses and hymn choices)

We Have Come Into This House by Bruce Ballinger

We have come into His house and gathered in His name to worship Him We have come into His house and gathered in His name to worship Him We have come into His house and gathered in His name to worship Him Worship Him, Christ, the Lord.

So forget about yourself and concentrate on Him and worship Him So forget about yourself and concentrate on Him and worship Him So forget about yourself and concentrate on Him and worship Him Worship Him, Christ, the Lord

Let us lift up holy hands and magnify His Name and worship Him Let us lift up holy hands and magnify His Name and worship Him Let us lift up holy hands and magnify His Name and worship Him Worship Him, Christ, the Lord

Suggested YouTube video options: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUPIN4uZbnE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_2DIM5_ai0

Reader: The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has designated one Sunday, usually in January, as Laity Sunday, as a reminder that people, beyond , also have gifts to offer in the work of the church. We, as lay people of the church are reminded of the priest- hood of all believers as we have come together and offer our own gifts to create a wor- shipful experience that will acknowledge the love of God and the gift of Jesus Christ, for that is always the most important thing to remember when we gather together. Please join us in this litany that reminds us that God is good and always in charge.

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Litany: Psalm 146

Leader: Hallelujah! O my soul, praise God!

People: All my life long I’ll praise God, singing songs to my God as long as I live.

Leader: Don’t put your life in the hands of experts who know nothing of life, of salvation life. Mere humans don’t have what it takes; when they die, their projects die with them.

People: Instead, get help from the God of Jacob, put your hope in God and know real ! God made sky and soil, sea and all the fish in it.

Leader: He always does what he says— he defends the wronged, he feeds the hungry.

People: God frees prisoners— he gives sight to the blind, he lifts up the fallen.

Leader: God loves good people, protects strangers, takes the side of orphans and widows, but makes short work of the wicked.

All: God’s in charge—always. Zion’s God is God for good! Hallelujah! The Message (MSG)

(optional) : It is important for parents, and the larger family (including the people of the church) to teach the scriptures to the chil- dren. It should begin when they are very young, as it is written in Proverbs 22:6 (NCV): “Train children to live the right way, and when they are old, they will not stray from it.”

It is also written in the 19th chapter of Matthew: “ Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."” Matthew 19:14 (NIV) Invitation: Would the children please come forward and join us during this time for children.

Time for Children (optional if this is normal for your church, or if this will be a teaching, and participation oppor- tunity for children not normally involved in the regular service).

You might prepare for this segment of the service by teaching the children (ahead of time), the song: “I’ve Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy Down In My Heart”. This song teaches the children bits of scripture and to also be joyful through all things. It is based on the fol-

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lowing passages: 1 Peter 1:8, Colossians 3:15, :27 and Romans 8:38-39. The words printed in the bulletin will allow the congregation to join in singing the prayer.

“I’ve Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy Down In My Heart”

I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy I’ve got the peace that passes understanding Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart Down in my heart I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy I’ve got the peace that passes understanding Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart (where?) Down in my heart to stay Down in my heart to stay

I’ve got the love of Jesus, love of Jesus I’ve got the wonderful love of my blessed Redeemer Down in my heart (where?) Way down in the depths of my heart (where?) Down in my heart (where?) Down in the depths of my heart (where?) Down in my heart Down in the depths of my heart I’ve got the love of Jesus, love of Jesus I’ve got the wonderful love of my blessed Redeemer Down in my heart (where?) Way down in the depths of my heart (where?) Down in my heart to stay Down in the depths of my heart to stay

The following questions are conversation starters during the children’s time. Use all of the questions, or select the one(s) that will speak to the children in your church community. You will also find a couple of YouTube video resources that you can use before, during ,or after the children’s time if your church has the appropriate media resources. Please preview and select those that will blend with your worship style.

Suggested YouTube video options: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z29h7HUcJus - “I’ve Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy” Here I am to Worship https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1-jUA-hnLE – Two children singing at home https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dRc0up7Sck – kids voices and lyrics

Starter Questions: What is joy? Is peace different from joy? If so, how? What can we do to worship God?

(Consider telling one of the familiar Bible stories such as David and Goliath, or Samuel who thought Eli was speaking to him when it was the voice of God), or another.

Talking Points: Consider conversation about the difference between God and Santa Clause, making sure they know there is a difference (such as, they can talk with God anytime etc.). Talk about the expressions in the words to the song or one of the scriptures and allow the children to express what they mean to them. If you have media op- tions, consider using one of the given URL’s as a video resource and then to launch conversation with the children.

Also consider using one of the videos above to encourage conversation.

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End the children’s time with a prayer (you may even ask if one of the children would like to offer the closing prayer) and sing again a verse or more from the song listed above. You might ask the congregation to join you. Excuse the children after the time is over.

Prayers of the People Most gracious God, we praise Your name, and know that because you love us in ways we cannot understand, we gratefully receive Your grace, for we know we are not worthy. Through your gift of love through Jesus Christ, we have hope, and a direct channel to your loving kindness. Jesus instructed us to use the power of His name in our petitions to you and for this, and so much more, we love you. Dear God, hear our prayers.

Help us to be mindful that Jesus came into an imperfect world to show us the way, and to help us find hope and to let us know of a most pow- erful love. Even then, as it is today, there were wars and troubles in the world and a continuous petition for peace.

In our petition this day, we ask that you hold us close to you, and mend the many broken hearts around this nation and world. We engage the Holy Spirit, The Comforter, to be an in- tercessor on our behalf, when senseless acts of violence and injustice leave us with no words to express our feelings.

We ask that the leaders of this nation and of all the nations of this world, know You, and petition your guid- ance. We pray for suffering children and families; and for those who are ill and overwhelmed; and for those without employment, and those who are homeless. Please hear our prayers.

We pray now, that you hear our voices as we release to you the names that are on our hearts, that you are pre- sent in each of their lives, and mindful of their challenges and victories.

(pause and let the congregants offer names and concerns)

We know you hear our prayers and know our needs. May we now commend them to you. We know you are our and helper, and that you gave to us, the greatest gift of all in our Savior, Jesus Christ in whose name we pray and who taught us to pray in this manner:

(Insert The Lord’s Prayer in the translation that is most common in your congregation.)

Amen Scripture

Matthew 22:29 New Century Version (NCV)

Jesus answered, “You don’t understand, because you don’t know what the Scriptures say, and you don’t know about the power of God.”

Suggested YouTube video options for The Lord’s Prayer: Instrumental: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKaUf7QiU5Y Susan Boyle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HaEoCqH47Y Jackie Evancho: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSj31u3urvs&list=RDbSj31u3urvs#t=3 in Korean: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWf9UKjai1oin in French: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSZXiTjma0o in Spanish: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiMPVnJhAwQ

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The Sermon/ Message

Note: On Laity Sunday the message can be delivered in many ways. If only one person is delivering the mes- sage, encourage time for prayer and discernment that God will direct the design and content of the message. Try to identify a theme that speaks to the heart of the one delivering the Laity Sunday message as it encourages the presenter to develop their own story as they share part of their personal spiritual journey. This is an oppor- tunity to inform others of the importance of knowing the word and heeding the instructions.

Optional Sermon (Speaker may also prefer to prepare their own, or modify this one):

Sermon Presenter: May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeem- er. (Pause, look at the congregation, and then continue to read below).

Optional Sermon: What is Bread?

1st Reader “For the bread of God is the Bread that comes down from heaven.”

“Give us this day our daily bread”

“I am the Bread of Life”

These are familiar passages that we hear from time-to-time in our worship services or Sunday school classes. In song, together, we sing: “Break Thou The Bread of Life” or “One Bread, One Body” but what does it all mean? The easy answer is to say that bread is food and you eat it when you are hungry. It is much more complex when Jesus refers to himself as the “Bread of Life”.

This year, the laity study and curriculum took a glimpse at bits and bites from the Bible. With thirty-nine Old Testament books and twenty-seven New Testament books, we today are challenged to consider what we really know of “The Word”. Our lives are so busy that it is possible we have “back-burnered” the most important need to know more about what is written in the Bible. This has been a challenge for believers for centuries. Even Jesus made reference to this in Matthew 22:29 (NCV) - Jesus answered, “You don’t understand, because you don’t know what the Scriptures say, and you don’t know about the power of God.”

The question is: Are we still just “milk-fed” or are we being nourished on the solid food of The Word? There is so much that is amazing and informative that is written in the Bible that we would like to share today, but it would take many, many Sundays to do so. For this reason, on this laity Sunday, we want to offer ourselves as encouragers. We want to share a bit, but want you to be hungry for more for we only have time to offer a couple of reflections—just an appetizer.

In life, when our children are young, we try so hard to protect them from many things. We want for them, to be healthy and strong and happy. We make sure their food is nourishing and not spoiled. When they are infants, we start them with milk and slowly move them through baby food, solid vegetables, and continue until they are able to handle spicy foods and even jerky. We want their friends to be of good influence and not to lead them into dangerous places and dangerous lifestyles.

In our spiritual lives, it is much the same. Sunday school gives us small portions of a larger message. An example would be the story of Jonah. Most children could tell you about the “whale” swallowing Jonah and later spitting him up on the

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shore. They may not yet know the rest of the story about Nineveh, and why God was displeased. They may not know about Jonah’s bad attitude, even after he went to Nineveh. The rest of the story, or digging for deeper meaning is critical to our adult understanding of the message of the Bible.

Sometimes the message is even a chal- lenge to hear, as it may call us to be re- sponsive as well. It may challenge us in our hearts to make changes in our lives that may seem inconvenient or in opposi- tion to our own plans, as was the case with Jonah.

Our western culture has slowly and carefully taught us that we, ourselves, are number-one and encourages us to be self- centered. It has slowly moved away from caring for your neighbor, and others who are not as materially blessed as we are. We have, however seen times when communities, local and larger, come together to assist when there is a natural disaster or critical situation. It is always an amazing thing to see, but soon if fades as the media transitions to another sto- ry. Sometimes a community still struggling is quickly forgotten. Historically, however, any community that has struggled will acknowledge that any continuing support generally comes from the church.

Though there are many things to trip and snare a person’s life and blur their perspective; I will only mention a couple of things you could identify easily when you get home. I suggest the media controls the minds of many. Take a second look at the television commercials. First, they flash them at you repeating them multiple times over a short period of time. They know it will stick in your mind if they do this. Commercials suggest that you and your life need to be perfect and that whatever they are selling will bring some of this to you. They are feeding us “spoiled food”.

Also, if you flip through a half-dozen stations, you will see a great, unprecedented amount of horror and gore with each change of the channel. You can easily find graphic violence with unbelievable detail. Of course sex is included on all lev- els, even if you are eating a juicy hamburger. Because it has all become so slowly acceptable in a family environment, it has also become the “norm” in the formative years of children as media of all kinds has become their entertainment, babysitter and life instructor. The outcome of this ingestion is also surfacing a new privileged and unsympathetic behavior type in many youth.

And so, what does this have to do with the Bible? There is a tendency, sometimes, to continue to feed the congregation simple versions of a more complex message in the Bible. Like any good TV soap opera, the story unfolds over a long peri- od of time. You know the characters and the antagonist. God’s plan began a long time ago and so much was shared through the predictions of the prophets. There is still more to come. There are antagonist, conflict, victory and love… and a very good ending if we are prepared. We do, however have to be informed, and so the gift of “The Word” was given to us for spiritual nourishment.

The Bible holds the key to the answers. The oldest, and most largely sold book of all times, may also be one that is not thoroughly read for all of the information and instructions that it provides as a gift for us.

The Bible also holds cautions as well. Sometimes it is hard to hear or to understand, but taking the time to spend in the word provides you with the spiritual food greater than baby food. As we mentioned earlier, hear this passage again when Jesus speaks of people not knowing because they have not spent time learning the scriptures.

Matthew 22:29 New Century Version (NCV) Jesus answered, “You don’t understand, because you don’t know what the Scriptures say, and you don’t know about the power of God.” 25

Consider Matthew 24:1-15 (NCV) some phrases may be a bit confusing, but once again, look for the deeper meaning and instruction. It is important, when you see instruction in the Bible that you pay-attention. How might it relate to you. Re- member, each person in the Bible had their own instruction. Searching for you instructions, listening and responding is what is important. Listen now, to Matthew 24:1-15:

1As Jesus left the Temple and was walking away, his followers came up to show him the Temple’s buildings. 2 Jesus asked, “Do you see all these buildings? I tell you the truth, not one stone will be left on another. Every stone will be thrown down to the ground.” 3 Later, as Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, his followers came to be alone with him. They said, “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that it is time for you to come again and for this age to end?” 4 Jesus answered, “Be careful that no one fools you. 5 Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will fool many people. 6 You will hear about wars and stories of wars that are coming, but don’t be afraid. These things must happen before the end comes. 7 Nations will fight against other nations; kingdoms will fight against other kingdoms. There will be times when there is no food for people to eat, and there will be earthquakes in different places. 8These things are like the first pains when something new is about to be born. 9 “Then people will arrest you, hand you over to be hurt, and kill you. They will hate you because you believe in me. 10 At that time, many will lose their faith, and they will turn against each other and hate each other. 11 Many false prophets will come and cause many people to believe . 12 There will be more and more evil in the world, so most people will stop showing their love for each other. 13 But those people who keep their faith until the end will be saved. 14 The Good News about God’s kingdom will be preached in all the world, to every nation. Then the end will come. 15 “Daniel the prophet spoke about ‘a blasphemous object that brings destruction. You will see this standing in the holy place.” (You who read this should understand what it means.)

We know that God is Love. Just like any parent might say: “wait for the green light”, “don’t get in the car with strangers”, it may not make the child happy, but you know they should learn from your instruction. In the same way in the passage above at verse 4, it is written: “Jesus answered, “Be careful that no one fools you.” What does it mean? Who should we be watching out for? These are questions we might ask if we are looking for solid scriptural food.

In the same way, it is hard to read and understand verse 9 above where it is written: “Then people will arrest you, hand you over to be hurt, and kill you. They will hate you because you believe in me.” Sometimes we are quick to say “I do not believe that” without digging deeper with a little research of our own. Because of the privilege and freedom we have in this country, we may have to look further to understand this passage as sometimes we forget the Bible is written for all the people of the world. There are religious wars today that are being fought based on ones beliefs. Even most recently, Jonah’s tomb (yes the Jonah from the big fish) was bombed. There are many being killed today for their religious beliefs. It is important to learn the word, grow scripturally and become informed so we can identify the truth and to also be able to identify false teachings. To do this, we need the “solid food”.

Though the passage above is found in the New Testament of the Bible, Jesus, himself makes reference to Daniel of the Old Testament. I think this is to teach us the relevance and connection of the Old Testament with the New. It is a reminder that things predicted hundreds of years before have come to be true. Remember, our timeline is not God’s timeline and everything does not happen overnight - but it has happened and will in the future as is written.

There is one more thing to point out from this passage in Matthew. Jesus said “Do not be Afraid”. The truth will set you free from fear, so it is important to look for the instruction and to live our lives for Jesus. We have been instructed to pray without ceasing. 26

1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 (CEV): Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. Don’t turn away God’s Spirit or ignore prophecies. Put everything to the test. Accept what is good and don’t have anything to do with evil. I pray that God, who gives peace, will make you completely holy. And may your spirit, soul, and body be kept healthy and faultless until our Lord Jesus Christ returns. The one who chose you can be trusted, and he will do this.

You can keep the word on your heart and pray as well by keeping a song on your lips or in your heart. We sing hymns in church, but may not realize we are quoting scripture or singing a prayer.

Let the Words of My Mouth is from Psalm 19:14; I Love you Lord is from Psalm 40:15; Immanuel, Immanuel is from Isaiah 7:14; Hush, Hush, Somebody’s Calling My Name is from Isaiah 43:1; Guide me O Thou Great Jeho- vah is from Isaiah 58:11; O Holy Night is from Luke:2:7; Spirit of the Living God is from :32; Fix Me Jesus is from 1 John 1:9 and All Hail the Power of Jesus Name and Crown Him With Many Crowns is about the fu- ture and is found in Revelations 14:14.

There are hundreds more references to scripture in your hymnal alone. Spend a moment just looking through the hymnal and find scriptural passages to the words you sing. I encourage you to find songs that have mean- ing to you and sing them daily. You can even make one or two songs your mantra, and focus for you to live by. Even then, continue to read, grow in your own knowledge of the scriptures. Let us not hear the words of Christ echoed back to us in the context he referred to hundreds of years ago: “You don’t understand, be- cause you don’t know what the Scriptures say, and you don’t know about the power of God.” We want to know… we want solid food.

As disciples, followers of Jesus Christ, we also have been given the great commission which is: Matthew 28:16-20 (NCV)

The eleven followers went to Galilee to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. On the mountain they saw Jesus and worshiped him, but some of them did not believe it was really Jesus. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All power in heaven and on earth is given to me. So go and make followers of all people in the world. Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.”

So we as followers—Disciples of Christ, know we already have a very important assignment. We have a story to tell to the nations.

Reader 2 As you just heard, we do have an assignment. It is important to know we must prepare ourselves for that assignment. I propose that you find another song to hold close to your heart. This one might be considered a prayer.

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We’ve a story to tell to the nations H. Ernest Nichol, 1862-1928

1. We've a story to tell to the nations, that shall turn their hearts to the right, 3. We've a message to give to the nations, a story of truth and mercy, that the Lord who reigneth above a story of peace and light, hath sent us his Son to save us, a story of peace and light. and show us that God is love, and show us that God is love. Refrain: (Refrain) For the darkness shall turn to dawning, and the dawning to noonday bright; 4. We've a Savior to show to the nations, and Christ's great kingdom shall come on who the path of sorrow hath trod, earth, the kingdom of love and light. that all of the world's great peoples might come to the truth of God, 2. We've a song to be sung to the nations, might come to the truth of God. that shall lift their hearts to the Lord, (Refrain) a song that shall conquer evil and shatter the spear and sword, and shatter the spear and sword. (Refrain)

William Longstaff who is the author of the hymn lyrics, “Take Time to be Holy” included an important message that we all must hold close to our hearts. He was born in 1822. I wonder what was going on in his life when he wrote this song. Was he writing a letter to someone or was he just reflecting on the things in his life?

It is interesting because he only wrote the lyrics and another person who was born twenty-four years after Longstaff composed the melody. His name was George Stebbins and he was born in 1846. It is a curious thing to wonder about how he obtained the lyrics… did he find a letter? Did he know Longstaff? However it happened, the message resonated with Stebbins. I can only imagine… as he was composing the tune that he had to speak the words over and over, almost like a prayer.

Today we open the hymnal and sing a song that is already familiar to us as it may have been one heard over many years. Maybe we heard it as a child, sung in church or by our mother or grandmother. Like a TV commer- cial today, “that tune” gets stuck in your head and it invokes an automatic response, you might just hum along. However… what is the message? Do you hear it, or do the words just roll off your tongue? Because it was written in old English, there may be a few words in the lyrics that are not easily understood. Do you know the meaning of “oft”, “abide” or “betide”? Let’s revisit the lyrics of this hymn as a letter or poem while changing some of the old words to ones we can understand today:

Take time to be holy and speak often with the Lord. Receive and accept what he has to offer and spend time finding spiritual nourishment from the scriptures. Make friends of other Christians and help those who are weak. In all that you do, don’t forget to look for God’s blessings.

Even when the world is rushing around you, take time to be holy. Make your own personal time to be alone with Jesus and don’t announce what you are doing. If you look to and learn from Jesus, you will become more like him and people will recognize these characteristics in you. Don’t try to live your life with your own rules but let the Lord guide you. Whatever happens, joyful or sorrowful, still believe in and follow the Lord, looking to Jesus for your answers and continuing to get nourishment from the Bible. 28

Take time to be holy and practice calming your soul. Be careful of your thoughts and motives and let the Holy Spirit be in control. The Holy Spirit will lead us to know where there is much love and prepare us for when it is time for us to leave this earth to be with Jesus.

Let us reflect now, on todays message as we calm our spirits and sing this prayerful song as we remain open to what God is calling us to do and be in this world.

Take Time to Be Holy Text: William D. Longstaff, 1822-1894 Music: George C. Stebbins, 1846-1945

1. Take time to be holy, 3. Take time to be holy, speak oft with thy Lord; let him be thy guide, abide in him always, and run not before him, and feed on his word. whatever betide. Make friends of God's children, In joy or in sorrow, help those who are weak, still follow the Lord, forgetting in nothing and, looking to Jesus, his blessing to seek. still trust in his word.

2. Take time to be holy, 4. Take time to be holy, the world rushes on; be calm in thy soul, spend much time in secret each thought and each motive with Jesus alone. beneath his control. By looking to Jesus, Thus led by his spirit like him thou shalt be; to fountains of love, thy friends in thy conduct thou soon shalt be fitted above. his likeness shall see.

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Congregational Response Please join me in this prayerful song; I am the Bread of Life. Please listen to the words anew:

I am the Bread of Life Suzanne Toolan

I am the bread of life chorus You who come to Me shall not hunger And who believe in Me shall not thirst I am the resurrection No one can come to Me I am the life Unless the Father beckons If you believe in Me Even though you die chorus You shall live forever And I will raise you up And I will raise you up chorus And I will raise you up on the last day Yes Lord I believe The bread that I will give That You are the Christ Is My flesh for the life of the world The Son of God And if you eat of this bread Who has come You shall live forever Into the world You shall live forever chorus

Offering Each day, God gives from His bounty, let us present with joy our offerings of commitment and support for the work of Christ’s church.

Offering Hymn Spirit of God Descend Upon My Heart Hymnal — Page 265

Communion Meditation

First Reader Communion Everything we do in public assembly is a measure of our respect for God. Nothing we do should dishonor God – at church or in our daily lives. Because we do fall short of respecting God in everything we do or think, we are indeed blessed to have Jesus Christ as our Savior.

Second Reader Communion We are gathered here, in the name of Jesus Christ. In the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, there are similar accounts of the time when Jesus sat down with his disciples to share a most important meal. In Matthew, the 26th chapter, beginning with the 26th verse it is written:

Third Reader Communion (or the Pastor or an if that is the preference of your church) Words of Institution

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26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

27 Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

Second Reader Communion And in the next verse of the same passage it is also written: 30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

First Reader Communion And so, in the same manner, we will share the cup, and together we will sing a hymn. Please join in this feast, as again, we have heard the story of the gift of the covenant that has been poured out for the forgiveness of our sins.

Communion Hymn Break Thou The Bread of Life Chalice Hymnal — Page 321

(Share here the method in which the communion will be distributed.)

Call to Discipleship

Today you have received “bites” from The Word, The Bible, that reflect the truth and life, demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ. It is hoped that you will hunger for more. If you want to be a follower, believe the good news of God’s abounding love in Jesus Christ. Those who desire to make their confession of faith in Christ and to be baptized into his body, or to trans- fer membership to this congregation, or to renew their Christian commitment, may come for- ward as the congregation sings a hymn of dedication.

Hymn of Invitation Living for Jesus Chalice Hymnal Page 610

Benediction

Now, may you go forth with new dedication to share the good news that is written of The Bread of Life that we all might hunger for more. Go, and live for Jesus, a life that is true.

Amen

Closing Hymn I Serve a Risen Savior

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Commitment Will Participant’s Ministry Name/Phone Attend Yes /No rehearsal

Event Coordinator/Host(s) Children’s Study and Coordinator Youth’s Study and Coordinator Prayer/Spiritual Leader Worship Call to Worship Opening Litany Reader: Time for Children Scripture Reader Prayers of the People The Sermon/ Message Facilitator Reader #1 Reader #2 Reader #3 or group Reader #4 Reader #5 Reader #6—9 – depends on your final design of the service

Offering Call to Discipleship Communion Meditation

First Reader Second Reader (optional)

Benediction

Other:

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Music Library

In the collection of hymns and music that follow are resources to help you pre- pare for the worship and study experience. When possible, you will find the sheet music for a pianist or organist to accompany the vocals. In the event that is not available, refer to your Chalice Hymnal.

ONLINE YouTube Video Library

It is exciting to provide website addresses that will direct you to various YouTube sites where you can here the melodies of selected songs and also view a video. For facilities that have internet and /or video connections, this may ex- pand resources for worship options.

For those facilities that have video resources in the classroom, these may be good teaching resources for Sunday school classes.

The website addresses can be copied into, or cut and pasted into the search engine. A faster connection if you are on a computer with internet access is to click the cursor in the middle of the web address, then hold down the ctrl key, and while holding it down, left-click the mouse once. In most cases, this will take you directly to the internet site.

Please preview these sites first to make sure they are a fit for your congregation’s worship style.

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Video Examples and Resources from YouTube You can use these clips as part of your worship to lead into the message. You can also use them as examples for the planning team to study as you develop your own message. (To open the YouTube sites, you need to have access to the website from your computer. Hold down the control key and click on the website address.

Bread of Heaven http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjVgm9-XTqQ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1fLiDjLf5c http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcWMLZdS4rE Bread of Heaven Extended play for meditation (14 minutes): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQ25T_9fccQ

You are Holy / Gadol Elohai by Joshua Aaron https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vosprI9WV3U HEBREW - How Great is our God / Gadol Elohai by Joshua Aaron https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWSKtoURGAg

The Lord’s Prayer Instrumental: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKaUf7QiU5Y Susan Boyle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-HaEoCqH47Y Jackie Evancho: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSj31u3urvs&list=RDbSj31u3urvs#t=3 in Korean: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWf9UKjai1oin in French: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSZXiTjma0o in Spanish: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiMPVnJhAwQ Chinese Version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1baNBCny_c in 8 Ancient Languages: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMqXR-BM0Q4 The Lord’s Prayer in Hebrew (it may be how the disciples heard it – you can learn it) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qToHoRxz3co The Lord’s Prayer for deeper study – a lesson in the translation of… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8IJOgMVE1Q

I Am The Bread of Life: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7y-NZocIwo

Video visual of Jesus’ time on earth to the song: “I am the Bread of Life” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4CapSBM8UA

One Bread One Body: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PczGcwVWM-w

Instrumental: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_hd7K5Rn5k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6xIdDYiA9A Worship in Creole Jésus, Tu es ma vie et ma joie - Maggie Blanchard https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1OwEZEjUzU&list=PL11C485A57E946EFF&index=4

Viens St Esprit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzyScRIF5IM&index=45&list=PL11C485A57E946EFF

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This year’s Laity Sunday/Week of the Laity package has been written by Lonnie Graves of Con- cord, Calif. Lonnie Graves has been trainer, speaker, presenter and keynoter at many regional, state and na- tional events across the United States. When she served as a Director of Women’s Ministries in the na- tional office of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she embraced diversity and also directed Leadership Development programs for various constit- uency groups. She has directed national and regional travel experiences for groups within the United States and outside of the U. S. to Haiti and the Dominican Republic. She has served on various Boards of Directors, and on planning teams for international events. Lonnie is also a published writer and photographer. She is currently an adjunct instructor at a local college, and is actively involved in her own contextual learning acade- my. She continues as a communications consultant curriculum and contextual learning experience developer.

E-mail: [email protected] Contact Information

Min. Sheila Spencer Director of Christian Education and Faith Formation Assistant to the President, Disciples Home Missions E-mail: [email protected] Office phone: (317) 713-2634

Wilma Shuffitt Ministry Associate, Disciples Home Missions E-mail: [email protected] Office phone: (317) 713-2639 Website: http://www.discipleshomemissions.org

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